Kashmiri Round Table Lamp circa 1930

A wonderfully decorative Kashmiri papier-mâché table lamp, dating to the first half of the 20th century. The rounded body is hand-painted on a warm ochre ground with an assortment of colourful birds, including a kingfisher and parakeet, set amongst scrolling branches and finely detailed gilt foliage. The surface has the characteristic lacquered finish associated with the traditional papier-mâché workshops of Kashmir in northern India, with delicate black outlining and extensive gold decoration. The aged surface, with areas of craquelure, rubbing and small losses, gives the piece considerable character.